Making it Worx

Trialsworx, Kidsworx put trials on display

Although Crankworx has ratcheted up the crowd factor this year
with the addition of a second dual slalom and a best trick competition, one of
the events never fails to entertain.

In its third year with Crankworx, Trialworx — and
Kidsworx for riders 10 and under — is continuing to grow. Organizer
Michael Baia, father of trials riders Jason and Scott Baia, is expecting
roughly 100 riders in the main event on Saturday, Aug. 16, and between 30 and
40 kids 10 and under in the Kidsworx contest on Friday.

Although his own sons have been competing for years, and Scott
remains the only North American ever to win a world event in Europe, Michael
says the sport never ceases to amaze him.

“Everything happens right in front of you, you can be 10 feet
away watching a guy drop eight feet onto a log from a rock. I’ve been involved
for quite a few years now and it still amazes me every time,” he said.

Trials riding is not about riding fast or landing tricks, but
about control. Riders will have their choice of six different lines about 50
metres in length. The goal is to get from one end to the other, moving up and
down impossible obstacles, without touching your feet on the ground. Riders get
deductions for dabs, and for going outside the time limit for each line.

Each line also has different moves, allowing amateur riders to
compete alongside the top pros.

According to Michael Baia, three of the lines will be around
Ross Rebagliati Park in the Fitzsimmons Creek area, and the other three will be
in the village. Spectators can follow riders around, or stay put in one spot to
watch how different competitors challenge the same line.

The Kidsworx competition takes place on three smaller lines,
with the kids 10 and under getting encouragement and advice from the pros.

“It’s just as exciting as the main event, it’s exciting to
watch all these kids 10 and under ride through the course,” said Baia. “In the
village section they have their names announced, and their parents and
grandparents are there taking pictures. Everybody gets a medal, and everybody
has fun. The main event is a lot more serious, but it’s amazing to watch the up
and coming kids out there.”

Some of the kids, including one six year old, will be competing
in the main event on the full course.

There is $3,000 in prize money up for grabs this year,
including $800 for the top pro rider.